TO mark World Pharmacy Day today (Saturday September 25) people across the Black Country are being reminded to consider talking to their local pharmacist about minor health concerns before visiting their GP or hospital.

The international day aims to encourage people to celebrate the role played by pharmacists in improving health across the world and how they should be the first port of call for people seeking medical attention for minor conditions to help reduce pressure on stretched NHS services.

Stephen Noble, local pharmacist and chief officer of the Dudley Local Pharmaceutical Committee, said: “As experts in medicine, pharmacists can help with almost any health concerns, whether that's providing treatment on the spot or signposting you to the right alternative NHS service. As pharmacies tend to be located in the heart of communities, the support they provide is always within easy reach for most people.

"With many also offering extended opening hours in the evenings and at weekends, pharmacy teams offer fast and convenient support - with no appointment needed. This World Pharmacists Day we're encouraging people to think about whether they really need a GP appointment or a hospital visit, and consider talking to their pharmacist first."

Dr Masood Ahmed, chief medical officer for Black Country and West Birmingham CCG, added: “The role of the pharmacist has really come into the spotlight this year, thanks to their pivotal role in the rollout of the lifesaving Covid-19 vaccination.

“This World Pharmacists’ Day, I want to thank all of our local pharmacists across the system for their hard work and committed support, especially as the NHS continues to recover from the pandemic. I would encourage local people to make their local community pharmacy their first port of call for healthcare advice, have reviews with available pharmacists at their registered surgeries, and help us help you as we head into winter."

Pharmacies can help with minor conditions, including coughs, colds, sore throats, tummy trouble and aches and pains.

They can also help with dispensing medicines, repeat prescriptions and help people choose the correct over-the-counter-medicine and some pharmacies offer

vaccination services on the premises.